High-level representatives attended Forum to discuss international economic and environmental policy

PRAGUE, 17 April 2000 - High-level representatives responsible for shaping international economic and environmental policy met in Prague this week for the 8th Annual Economic Forum of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).

Organized under the general theme of Economic Aspects of Post-Conflict Rehabilitation, the Forum included keynote addresses, discussions and working tables. Participants pressed for the continuation of reforms in post-conflict areas, particularly in the areas of law enforcement and institution building. New jobs and economic growth were cited as major factors that could generate political spinoffs. Participants were critical of continuing trade practises that prevent fair competition on level playing fields. They also encouraged judicial reforms that support economic independence, and noted that emerging democracies should make a firm commitment to objectives of the international agreements in which they participate, particularly in the environmental protection field.

Three working groups discussed specific areas. Among the issues that emerged was recognition that the integration of minorities is a prerequisite for the integration of any state into European structures. Participants noted that NGOs fill an important "checks and balances" role in a civil society, and also provide a reservoir of expertise to help develop training and advocacy skills. OSCE missions delivered presentations on how transparency, good governance and strong institutions can help battle corruption.

In the environmental areas, participants reiterated support for the regional Environmental Reconstruction Programme for South-Eastern Europe. They confirmed that water and energy issues are a source of tension in Central Asia and dispute settlement mechanisms could help reconcile competitive interests in these countries. They noted that the OSCE also has an important role to play in building institutional capacity and training Central Asian officials and experts in negotiation, consensus-building and law.

Another working group noted that post-conflict societies are split along gender lines, and women tend to be affected in different and often more dramatic ways than men. For some countries, the influx of refugees is a staggering problem with far-reaching consequences for state budgets, the environment, and social infrastructure. Participants agreed that OSCE should work in close co-operation with the United Nations High Commission on Refugees and other agencies, to support and develop regional strategies to promote the return of refugees and internally displaced persons. They noted an urgent need for streamlining and co-ordinating project financing to reduce redundant and overlapping programs.

The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe is a regional security organization whose 55 participating States are from Europe, Central Asia and North America. The OSCE has been established as a primary instrument for early warning, conflict prevention, crisis management and post-conflict rehabilitation.

More information on the 8th Annual OSCE Economic Forum is available on the OSCE website at: //www.osce.org/eea